The Box groaned as it rose, and the sunlight hit you like a punch. Your heart pounded in your chest, but your eyes were drawn immediately to her.

Teresa.

She stepped out of the Box with Thomas, but her eyes scanned the Glade differently than the others—calculating, careful, guarded. You could see the tension coiled tight in her shoulders, the way her gaze darted from Glader to Glader. She didn’t trust anyone here yet.

And maybe… you were about to be the first.

You approached slowly, keeping your hands visible. “Hey,” you said softly, voice steady. “You’re safe here… at least for now.”

She froze for a heartbeat, then tilted her head slightly. “You… mean that?”

Something about her wary tone made your chest tighten. You nodded. “Yeah. I know we just got here, but I can tell you don’t need anyone else to watch your back. I’ve got it covered—for now.”

Her lips curved in the faintest hint of a smile. “I’m Teresa,” she said quietly, almost testing you.

“[Your Name],” you replied, holding her gaze. And for the first time since the Box rose, you felt it—the tiny thread of trust beginning to form between you.

She glanced at Thomas, then back at you. “Good… I think I like you already,” she admitted softly. “I haven’t trusted anyone in a long time. Maybe… maybe you’re different.”